GIGABYTE Z890 AORUS Xtreme AI TOP motherboard review DDR5 PCIe 5.0 Thunderbolt 5

Description

Uncompromising Performance with the GIGABYTE Z890 AORUS XTREME AI TOP

Testing the GIGABYTE Z890 AORUS XTREME AI TOP has been an adventure for a tech enthusiast like me. This E-ATX motherboard, with its robust features and cutting-edge technology, promises to deliver a performance boost for high-end gaming rigs and demanding workstations. I cannot deny that it stands out among other top-tier motherboards I’ve tested, but there are certainly aspects to consider before making a purchase.

Design and Build of the Z890 AORUS

Right out of the box, the design of this motherboard screams premium. The black finish, paired with the UD nanocarbon backplate, gives the entire piece a sleek and futuristic appearance. It’s not just about looks, though. The VRM Thermal Armor and DDR Wind Blade XTREME ensure your components stay cool, even under intense loads. While installing this massive E-ATX board, I noticed the inclusion of the M.2 EZ-Latch and PCIe EZ-Latch mechanisms. These are a godsend for anyone who has struggled with delicate components during assembly.

However, at a hefty 11 pounds, this motherboard is not for the faint-hearted. You’ll need a spacious case to house it comfortably. While the EZ-Debug Zone adds convenience, the size might pose a challenge for compact or mid-sized setups.

Performance and Speed

This motherboard’s support for Intel Core Ultra Processors (Series 2) coupled with DDR5 RAM compatibility ensures that it can handle anything and everything thrown at it. I paired it with 5600 MHz DDR5 modules, and the speed was nothing short of breathtaking. Opening resource-heavy applications, gaming, and multitasking all felt seamless. The 22+1+2 power phase design with 110A Smart Power Stage ensures stable power delivery, which is essential for overclocking enthusiasts.

The PCIe 5.0 slots and 4x M.2 slots offered jaw-dropping transfer speeds. My system’s boot time and game load times were significantly reduced. On the downside, the M.2 slots’ thermal guards are efficient, but they require careful placement and tightening, which took me some trial and error. It’s a minor inconvenience for the performance boost they provide.

Connectivity and Networking

Another highlight of this product is its connectivity options. The inclusion of dual Thunderbolt 5 ports, front USB-C, and Thunderbolt 4 ensures that I can connect all my peripherals without feeling restricted. Whether it was my high-speed SSDs or external GPUs, everything worked without a hitch. The WIFI7 support and 10GbE LAN made online gaming and streaming smooth, even during peak usage times.

For someone who often deals with modern peripherals, these features are invaluable. However, I did notice that the WIFI EZ-Plug could have been positioned better; it felt slightly cramped when routing cables.

Key Benefits

• Supports DDR5 RAM and Intel Core Ultra Processors for exceptional speed.
• EZ-Latch mechanisms simplify the installation process.
• Dual Thunderbolt 5 ports and WIFI7 offer unmatched connectivity.
• Thermal management features keep the system cool under pressure.

Caveats

• Bulky size might not suit compact PC cases.
• M.2 thermal guards require careful handling during installation.
• WIFI EZ-Plug placement could be more intuitive.

Competing Products

Comparing this motherboard to others in its league, I found that the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme and MSI MEG Z790 Godlike are its closest competitors. While both of these alternatives also offer DDR5 support and PCIe 5.0, the GIGABYTE Z890 AORUS excels with its dual Thunderbolt 5 ports and WIFI7 compatibility. The ASUS ROG does have a more user-friendly BIOS, but it lacks some of the thermal management features that this GIGABYTE model boasts. Meanwhile, the MSI MEG Z790 offers a stunning RGB lighting setup, but its port selection falls short when compared to the GIGABYTE Z890 AORUS.

If you’re someone who prioritizes performance and connectivity over aesthetics, this motherboard might just edge out its competitors. However, if BIOS simplicity or RGB lighting is a priority, the others are worth considering.

Price to Quality Ratio

The price-performance ratio of this motherboard is impressive. It’s undeniably an investment, but the features it brings to the table justify the cost. From the cutting-edge networking options to the robust power design, the GIGABYTE Z890 AORUS offers premium quality that matches its price tag. While there are cheaper alternatives on the market, they often compromise on thermal management or high-speed connectivity, which are pivotal for high-end builds.

If you’re building a PC that needs to handle 4K gaming, video editing, or heavy multitasking, this motherboard delivers the kind of performance that makes it worth every penny.

Additional information